I am often asked, "What does a wedding coordinator really do?" To answer that, I could write a long list of duties performed by a wedding coordinator, but I might paint a clearer picture by referring to two characters on the popular television series, Downton Abbey. If you're a fan of Downton Abbey you must be acquainted with Mr. Carson, the head butler who runs the household with the assistance of Mrs. Hughes, the chief housekeeper. He directs the male staff in their duties and assures that no one is goofing off when they should be working. When a guest arrives at the Abbey, he greets them and directs them to the room where they will be received. When it's time for a meal he selects the best wine, chooses the china and flatware, and checks and doublechecks that each place is set properly. After the guests are seated, Mr. Carson oversees the serving of the food, alerts Mrs. Patmore when it's time to bring up the next course, and directs the clearing of the dishes. Meanwhile, Mrs. Hughes oversees the females. Her staff help the ladies with dressing, make sure the clothes and linens are clean and pressed, and assures every room is cleaned, dusted and ready for guests. Together they keep an eye out for potential problems, and they work together to resolve them before they come to the attention of Lord and Lady Grantham. If you could combine these two wonderful servants and bring them to your event, then you would have the perfect wedding coordinator! The coordinator works behind the scenes making sure that everything is set up properly and is ready to go at the appropriate time. She assures that every family member and every guest is welcomed, has all their needs met, and feels important. She directs the rest of the staff (your vendors, in this scenario) in the performance of their duties. A mistress of manners and etiquette, she performs these duties gracefully and quietly in the background, drawing no attention to herself. I am sure Mr. Carson would approve!

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Miss Ellie is the perfectly proper wedding planner to whom we all turn for wedding planning advice. To ask a question, just click the email button at the top of the page, or leave a comment and she will respond.